President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared a "national emergency on population" and announced measures to address the declining birth rate in South Korea. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the rapid population decline poses an existential threat to the country. The government's response includes the establishment of a Population Strategy Department, policy efforts focused on work-life balance, child care, and housing, and the commitment to implement a public child care system covering children from birth to 11 years old. To support parents in balancing work and child care responsibilities, the government will introduce short-term child care leave for emergencies, raise the age limit for reduced working hours during child care, and increase paternity leave for childbirth. Additionally, the government will provide free education and care for children aged 3 to 5, expand after-school programs, and increase the availability of public and private caregivers. Housing initiatives will include expanding housing allocations for households with newborns and developing new housing sites for newlyweds and families with children. President Yoon's declaration and proposed measures aim to address the critical issue of declining birth rates in South Korea and provide comprehensive support for families and children.